Billions of people send text messages every year. Other messaging channels that offer replace SMS much more, such as Rich Communication Services (or RCS). But what is RCS messaging? And how does it work?
RCS was creat as a replacement for MMS and SMS messaging . From the start, it allows Android users to enjoy many of the same features as those using Apple’s iMessage system. Although RCS was first conceiv 15 years ago, its widespread adoption has grown more recently. At its IO conference in May 2022, Google announc that there are 650 million monthly users and that they expect to reach 1 billion by the end of 2023.
Google data also suggests that people are 35% more likely to read an RCS message than an replace SMS email, and 74% more likely to engage with brands using RCS.
How does this benefit your business? Let’s look at how you can use RCS messaging to improve engagement, sales, and gain customer trust.
What is RCS messaging?
RCS is a messaging protocol originally creat for Google/Android users with chat features similar or superior to Apple’s iMessage.
With RCS chats, businesses can use live chats that include multimia (think a web browser, maps, and other images) to go directly to the user’s native inbox (like Android’s Messages).
While more people than ever use SMS today, it does have its limitations (remember, the first text message was sent in 1992). So, in 2006, a group set out to create the next step or evolution of SMS: the RCS standard.
RCS was design to bring SMS up to date with modern systems and nes. That means more options, images, videos and better security.
Sinch’s Robert Gerstmann said one of the potentials of RCS is that it can replace apps entirely. While that may sound radical, it’s possible. Many of the most list of australia cell phone number common uses of apps (checking balances, placing orders) could be handl with rich messaging. Plus, the security requir for a business to be verifi builds consumer trust, making them more likely to engage with that channel.
RCS only for Android phones?
RCS was creat in collaboration with the Global Mobile Operators Association (GSMA) and is available on Android devices via the Google or Samsung messaging impact on share visual content app, for example. The RCS protocol, being a standard and not an application, allows operators and manufacturers to develop their own applications.
Where is RCS us?
RCS has full coverage in Spain, France, Germany, UK, Italy, USA, Mexico, Canada, Brazil and bz lists India. Other countries offer full support through Google’s RCS services or partial support, with a selection of local mobile operators providing RCS.
